Does Your Performance Supplement Contain a Side of Viagra?
Recent alerts from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have warned that supplements widely marketed to men are testing positive for prescription drugs that could have dangerous side effects. The products are often promoted as “all natural” and claim to improve strength and energy, sexual performance, or virility.
Hidden Ingredients
Through testing, the FDA detected undeclared ingredients such as sildenafil and tadalafil, the active compounds in the erectile dysfunction prescription medications Viagra or Cialis, in ZoomMax, ZapMax, PeakMax, and Vitafer-L Gold. Other drugs that have been found include diclofenac, a pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory that is similar to ibuprofen, and even medications for diabetes.
Consequences
Dr. Jesse Mills, a urologist and the director of the men’s clinic at UCLA Health, calls the dietary supplements "truck stop Viagra" and worries that people who get relief from erectile dysfunction with supplements may also be missing opportunities to catch early heart disease. "Erectile dysfunction in a lot of men is a sentinel event that would suggest they have an increased risk of coronary artery disease," he said.
Regulation
Dr. Pieter Cohen, an associate professor at Harvard Medical School who studies the regulation of supplements, described the proliferation of performance supplements as a "hot mess." Because the FDA doesn’t approve dietary supplements to be sold and marketed in the U.S., it doesn’t regularly test and validate manufacturers’ claims about what’s in them.
What to Look For
It’s important to be wary of any product that makes over-the-top claims, Cohen said. Mills said that while there are supplements that have shown some promise in treating erectile dysfunction, such as L-arginine, they are often studied at much higher doses than in over-the-counter products.
Conclusion
The proliferation of performance supplements has made it difficult for regulators to keep pace. Men in their 40s who have erection problems run an 80% risk of developing heart problems within 10 years. It’s essential to be cautious when using supplements and to consult with a doctor before starting any new regimen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I do if I’m taking a supplement that contains undeclared ingredients?
A: Stop taking the supplement immediately and consult with your doctor.
Q: How can I ensure the supplements I’m taking are safe?
A: Check whether a supplement has been evaluated by a third party, such as the U.S. Pharmacopia. Also, consult with your doctor before starting any new regimen.
Q: Are all supplements created equal?
A: No, not all supplements are created equal. Some may contain undeclared ingredients or may not be tested for safety and efficacy.
Q: Can I trust online reviews and testimonials about supplements?
A: No, online reviews and testimonials should not be taken as a guarantee of a supplement’s safety and effectiveness. Always consult with your doctor before starting any new regimen.
